Desolation and Decreation

Leviticus 26 uses the verb “make desolate” ( shamem ) seven times (vv. 22, 31, 32 [2x], 34, 35, 43).  Yahweh threatens to de-create the land.

The link between the curses of Leviticus 26 and creation is not merely numerical.  The desolations follow, roughly, the events of the creation week.

First, the “ways” of Israel will be desolated (v 22).

Second, their “sanctuaries” will be desolated (v 31).  Insofar as the sanctuary is a “firmament” boundary between heaven and earth, this is a “Day 2” theme.

Third, the “land” will be desolated (v. 32a).  Dry land appears on Day 3, and one of Yahweh’s threats is to remove the vegetation that covers the land.

Fourth, the “enemies” that dwell in the land will be “desolated” at the desolation (v. 32b).  Day 4 is the day of rulers.

The last three uses of “make desolate” are all connected with Sabbath.

Fifth, the “land” will be desolate and the land will be depopulated, while Israel is scattered to the lands of their enemies, because they failed to give rest to the land (v 34).

Sixth, the land will be desolate and rest because Israel gave it no rest (v 35).

Seventh, the land will be deprived of her inhabitants, and will be given rest, because Israel failed to observe the Sabbaths of the land (v 43).